7 drinks to make for National Tequila Day

Ahh… Tequila. Who knew that one word could conjure so many memories (or lack thereof). And while those college nights or even last year’s vacation with your girlfriends may come to mind, get ready to make new memories with these fabulous, tequila-inspired cocktails. They will surely reign in the fun! Cheers!

The Paloma

Kosher salt1 grapefruit wedge1/4 cup fresh grapefruit juice1 tablespoon fresh lime juice1 teaspoon sugar1/4 cup mezcal or tequila1/4 cup club soda
Easily one of the most popular tequila drinks in Mexico, the paloma is a staple at any party (Mexican or not). And if you’re pressed for time, just combine tequila and squirt; you can’t go wrong.

The Matador

2 ounces tequila3 ounces pineapple juice1⁄2 ounce lime juiceIf the name weren’t intriguing enough, the combo of tequila, pineapple juice and lime will be. Who knows, maybe this drink will be the perfect ice breaker to try on that Spanish guest you’ve been eyeing all night. Ole!

Tequila Sunrise

1 1/2 oz of tequila3/4 cup of orange juice3/4 oz of grenadineMarachino cherry
This beautiful drink will have you dreaming of golden sand and crystal blue water in no time. So go ahead.. add the ice, poor in the tequila and finish it off with a little grenadine and OJ because you, my friends, are one step closer to paradise.

Bloody Maria

1 jigger (1/2 ounces) tequila1/2 cup tomato juice1 tablespoon fresh lime juice1/8 teaspoon celery saltWorcestershire sauce, to tasteTabasco, to tasteGarnish: 1 celery rib and 1 lime wedge
As hard as it may be to imagine replacing your classic bloody mary with something as (seemingly) foreign as tequila, fear not, folks. Many reputable mixologists rave about tequila’s taste as being the perfect compliment to any savory drink. Who knows, maybe this tequila version could be your new go-to!

Peligroso Sangre

1 1/2 oz of Peligroso Cinnamon Tequila1/2 oz. of Cointreau2 oz. of red wine,1/2 oz of ging eraleOrange twist (for garnish)
Spanish for “dangerous blood,” this sultry drink is the perfect addition to any cocktail hour. Suffice it to say that this inspired blend of spices, liquor, and wine will be sure to get anyone’s blood pumping.

Black Diamond

2 oz. Maestro Dobel Tequila1/2 oz. agave nectar1/2 oz. fresh lime juiceBlack salt (for rim)
As tasty as it is catchy, this drink will be sure to garner an audience, if only for the sake of its edgy name. This new fan base will stick around though because this drink is simply delicious. Just don’t forget the black salt for that special, “x” factor.
And last but not least... Margaritaville's own Perfect Margarita. Because it's perfect, duh.